What happened
On the afternoon of 25 April 2024, an Eagle 150B aircraft was approaching Jandakot Airport, Western Australia from the west on return from a recreational flight. The pilot of the Eagle 150B had checked the automatic terminal information service (ATIS) and was aware that the active runway for an approach from the west was runway 06 left (06L). Jandakot air traffic control cleared the Eagle 150B for a visual approach with instructions to join final for runway 06L and to follow preceding traffic, an American Champion 8GCBC Scout.
Upon sighting flashing white lights on early downwind, the pilot of the Eagle 150B mistakenly concluded that they were the rear lights on the aircraft they were to follow. Without identifying that turning towards this aircraft would put the Eagle 150B on downwind for runway 24 right, the pilot turned to follow the incorrect aircraft. This put the Eagle 150B on a reciprocal track with the American Champion Scout.
The air traffic controller was not initially able to visually locate the Eagle 150B due to environmental conditions but subsequently identified the aircraft on their tower situation air display. The controller issued the American Champion Scout a safety alert and avoiding instructions. When clear, the Eagle 150B was given instructions to rejoin the circuit.
Safety message
This incident highlights the importance of following correct circuit procedures, complying with ATC instructions and using see and avoid procedures effectively, particularly in high traffic environments. Ensuring situational awareness, through familiarising with the aerodrome, reviewing procedures preflight and using ATIS information to anticipate the expected circuit pattern can help to ensure correct procedures are followed.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.